Structures Engineer

As aerospace structural engineers, we design, develop, and test aircraft, spacecraft, or missile structures. Working as part of a team of engineers, we research, analyze, and create structural engineering specifications. Using computer-aided design, mathematical models, and other computer software, we formulate, analyze, and modify airplane or missile prototypes. We test damage tolerance, durability, and stability in order to determine structural configurations. Some of our other duties may include documenting performance records, inspecting damaged or malfunctioning products, and writing technical reports or product manuals. We may advance our career to become structural specialists, aerospace engineering managers, or chief engineering officers.

Core tasks:

• designing of structural aircraft components such as wings, fuselages, empennage, etc.
• evaluating concepts for structures, critically assessing detailed designs, and conducingt technical studies to assure structural integrity and stability
• performing initial layout and sizing
• conception, analysis, and selection of appropriate structural models
• writing detail design and fabrication instruction
• direct communication with vendors and technicians in manufacturing